A guide to leading practice sustainable development in mining

Improved stakeholder engagement in planning and decision-making
– more informed development of strategies and programs
to address impacts, ideally as part of a community
development approach from early in the mine life
– improved community receptiveness to future mining proposals
– enhanced public image and reputation.
– understanding the likely impacts on affected communities in terms
of environmental, social and economic impacts of mine closure
– informed development of strategies and programs to
address closure impacts, ideally as part of a community
development approach from early in the mine’s life
– increased support from employees, government, landholders, local
community and other stakeholders for closure decisions.
Reduction of risks and liabilities
– assured financial and material provision for mine
rehabilitation and closure through early and more accurate
estimation of mine rehabilitation and closure costs
– reduction of exposure to contingent liabilities related to
public safety and environmental hazards and risks.
– continual reduction of liabilities by optimising operational works
during active mine life in alignment with closure plan
– reduction of ongoing responsibilities for the site and facilitation
of timely relinquishment of tenements and bond recovery.
134 LEADING PRACTICE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM FOR THE MINING INDUSTRY